Alibi Picks

Jazz Rhapsody

Randol Bass conducts the New Mexico Philharmonic in a presentation of the music of Gershwin, his contemporaries and successor tomorrow. Gershwin and Company features guest pianist and University of Michigan professor Logan Skelton. Skelton will perform the American Modernist masterpiece “Rhapsody in Blue,” along with companion piece, “An American in Paris.” The philharmonic will also tackle selections from Porgy and Bess, as well as compositions by Ferde Grofé, Duke Ellington and “Sleigh Ride” composer Leroy Anderson.

Grofé is significant here because he was responsible for orchestrating “Rhapsody in Blue.” His arrangement of the piece is considered a key moment in the development of 20th century American music. His signature piece, “Grand Canyon Suite,” is an orchestral standard. The Philharmonic will perform a selection from this deep slice of Americana, as well as Anderson’s notable celebration of American business, "The Typewriter." A medley of Duke’s wide-ranging work, arranged for orchestra, begins the second half of the evening’s program. Tickets for this event, starting at 6pm at Popejoy Hall, range from $20 to $68, and that’s a bargain to spend the evening with such legendary names and their combined sonic output. Popejoy Hall, UNM Center for the Arts • Sat Feb 8 • 6pm • $20-$68 • ALL-AGES! • View on Alibi calendar